General information only. This is not legal, tax or investment advice. Check the rules that apply to you with a qualified adviser.
Define the raise
Write down the amount, the instrument (equity, debt, convertible, fund interest), the use of funds and the timeline. Investors ask about all four early.
Match the source to the stage
| Source | Often fits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Friends and family | Very early stage | Keep terms in writing. |
| Angel investors | Seed and early rounds | Often invest through groups. |
| Family offices | Direct deals, funds, real estate | Longer horizons, fewer staff, private decisions. |
| Venture capital | High-growth companies | Expect a fund-driven timeline. |
| Private equity | Established, profitable companies | Often seek control or a large stake. |
| Lenders | Cash-flowing businesses and assets | Debt keeps ownership but adds repayment. |
| Crowdfunding | Consumer brands and community projects | US Regulation Crowdfunding has its own limits and filings. |
Build a target list
Filter by what investors have stated: stage, sector, geography and size. A shorter, relevant list is easier to work properly than a long one. The finding guide covers this for family offices.
Prepare materials
- A one-page summary
- A short deck
- A data room you can open when someone asks for detail
Run a process
Track every contact, date and reply. Follow up on a schedule and stop when someone says no. See the email templates.
Compliance
Securities rules apply to most raises. Speak to counsel before you approach investors.